Erosion

Definition

Erosion is the detachment and transport of soil particles by water, wind or gravity. It removes the fertile surface first and is far faster than natural soil formation when ground is bare; the UN Convention to Combat Desertification says current farming practices erode soils up to 100 times faster than natural processes replenish them. Some erosion is natural, but poor management makes it much worse. Covering the soil with plants, residue or mulch is the most widely effective defence. See also: Runoff, Gully erosion, Topsoil, and the guide "Soil Erosion by Water and Wind: Mechanisms and Warning Signs".